Michigan Man Pleads No Contest to Killing Girlfriend After Torturing Her for 2 Weeks

Daniel Varnes faces decades in prison for the murder of Teressa M. Johnson, whose body was discovered by his drug dealer

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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A 47-year-old Michigan man named Daniel Varnes has pleaded no contest to second-degree murder, torture, and concealing a death after he admitted to torturing his girlfriend, Teressa M. Johnson, for two weeks before she died in a motel room. Varnes' drug dealer alerted police after seeing Johnson's body under bed covers in the motel room.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the importance of reporting suspected crimes, even by those who may be involved in illegal activities themselves. It also raises questions about mental health resources and support systems for vulnerable individuals.

The details

According to court documents, Varnes admitted to beating Johnson over a two-week period using his fists and boots, and also used needle-nosed pliers to keep her lips shut. Police found various tools in the motel room that tested positive for Johnson's blood. A medical exam ruled her death a homicide due to multiple traumatic injuries.

  • On September 1, 2024, Varnes was taken into custody after Johnson's mutilated body was discovered at the Rodeway Inn and Suites in Saginaw.
  • On August 31, 2024, Varnes' drug dealer visited the motel room and saw Johnson's body under the bed covers.
  • Varnes last saw Johnson alive around 2:30 p.m. on August 31, 2024.

The players

Daniel Varnes

A 47-year-old Michigan man who pleaded no contest to second-degree murder, torture, and concealing a death for killing his girlfriend, Teressa M. Johnson.

Teressa M. Johnson

A 46-year-old woman who was killed by her boyfriend, Daniel Varnes, after he tortured her for two weeks in a motel room.

Varnes' drug dealer

A man who visited Varnes' motel room and saw Johnson's body under the bed covers, prompting him to call 911.

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What they’re saying

“You know exactly what that is.”

— Varnes' drug dealer (MLive)

What’s next

Varnes is scheduled to be sentenced on April 13 and is expected to serve 32 years in a state correctional facility.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the importance of recognizing and reporting signs of domestic violence, even when it involves individuals engaged in other illegal activities. It also highlights the need for greater mental health resources and support systems to prevent such horrific acts of violence.